Christians, in their turn, must “realize that their responsibility within creation, and their duty towards nature and the Creator, are an essential part of their faith.”
— Saint John Paul II
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“We must regain the conviction that we need one another, that we have a shared responsibility
for others and the world, and that being good and decent is worth it.”
— Pope Francis
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Celebrate Laudato Si' Week with Us!
Next Tuesday, May 24, 2022, marks the seventh anniversary of Pope Francis’ encyclical Laudato Si’ — On Care for Our Common Home. Since 2015, Laudato Si’ has sparked enthusiasm, and some controversy, and the awareness and energy it has generated is undeniable. As Franciscans, the relationship between God and all Creation, including the Human Family, is woven into our spirituality and everyday life. To intensify our commitment, we formally signed on to the Laudato Si’ Action Platform in October 2021, pledging to educate ourselves and others about the Holy Father’s encyclical and the related ecological and socioeconomic issues.
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Join Us for a Week of Free, Family-Friendly Events
All are invited to join our Sisters during Laudato Si’ Week (May 22-29), for family-oriented activities at Monocacy Manor in Bethlehem, Pa. All activities are offered through our ministries — St. Francis Center for Renewal and Monocacy Farm Project. Admission is free, and no registration is required, but to help accommodate everyone comfortably, we kindly ask you to bring your own lawn chair or mat and reusable drink container for all activities.
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Opening Outdoor Mass & Farm Tours
Father Kevin Nadolski will celebrate Mass outdoors behind the convent. Afterwards, enjoy a reception and tours of Monocacy Farm Project hosted by Sister Bonnie Marie Kleinschuster, project director.
In the case of inclement weather, Mass will move indoors to Mullen Hall.
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Laudato Si' Annniversary Celebration
Join us for an outdoor interfaith prayer service and spiritual drumming. Some drums will be provided, but you are welcome to bring your own. Afterwards, Marie North, Laudato Si’ animator, will highlight practical steps families can take to care for Creation.
In the case of inclement weather, we will move indoors to St. Francis Center for Renewal.
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Special Movie Screening
for Families
Bring the whole family for a free showing of The Biggest Little Farm beginning at 7 p.m. in Mullen Hall. The 2018 film chronicles the quest of John and Molly Chester to trade city living for 200 acres of barren farmland and a dream to harvest in harmony with nature. Drinks and locally-sourced popcorn will be provided. Please bring your own reusable drink container.
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Birds, Bees, Flowers, Trees Learning Night
Engage with nature during an evening of special programming. At 6:30 p.m., learn how to prevent bird strikes on your windows, then take part in a hands-on family activity (please bring your own scissors). At 7:30 p.m., alternating breakout sessions will spotlight Bees & Pollinators and Trees & Caring for Our Watershed. All are welcome to attend one or both.
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All events will take place at our Monocacy Manor property,
located at 395 Bridle Path Road, Bethlehem PA 18017.
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Caring for the Mother Nature & God's People
For the School Sisters of St. Francis U.S. Province, modeling our spiritual lives after Francis of Assisi and mirroring his simple existence are the very foundations of community life. It is, perhaps, more important that we also act in Francis’ image and advocate for those who have less, as well as for the very blessing that we all share — Mother Earth. Click above to watch our special video highlighting these efforts.
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